Victory Florida

2015 marks the 70 year anniversary of the end of World War II in 1945. The Florida Department of State is drawing attention to this important anniversary with the campaign “Victory Florida,” which honors and celebrates the heroes and heroines of World War II while educating Floridians about the important role Florida played in training for the battlefield and on the home front during the war.

Important Dates to Note

May 8: World War II ended in Europe
May 25: Memorial Day
August 7: Purple Heart Day
August 8-16: Victory Florida Week
August 14 -16: National Spirit of '45 Weekend
September 2: Official ending of World War II
September 18: POW/MIA Recognition Day
November 11: Veterans Day
December 7: Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

Florida WWII History

Florida was an active training ground for the United States’ military. By December 7, 1941, when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor and the United States officially entered the war, more than 170 military installations were established in Florida. After the war in 1945, many surviving service members who had been stationed in Florida prior to active duty returned to settle here. The state’s population grew more than 46% during the 1940s and even more in the 50s as a likely result of the war-time military postings.

In addition to the hundreds of thousands of servicemen and servicewomen who came to Florida from other states to train and serve, over 248,000 Floridians, including more than 50,000 African Americans, volunteered or were drafted into the military. Over 4,600 Floridians lost their lives while in service during World War II. Today the United States is losing its World War II veterans at the rate of approximately 900 per day and time is of the essence to honor these heroes.

Explore the state and the incredible sites that tell the story of ordinary Floridians doing extraordinary things for their country during World War II.

Florida is home to many WWII museums who share the history of the role the United States - particularly Florida - played in this global war. Experience the powerful story of Florida in World War II by visiting one of... More

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Victory Florida Events

From events celebrating and honoring Florida's veterans to exhibits sharing the important role Floridians played at home in attaining Victory in WWII, find out what is taking place in your region to honor this important anniversary.